How to Use the switch Statement

The switch statement tests a variable for one or more cases. If the value of the variable matches the case, then the statement or statements associated with that case are executed. Equivalent code can be achieved by coding an if...else if... sequence, however, the if...else if... sequence requires the test condition to be repeated for every case, thus requiring more coding and producing code that is more challenging to maintain. To write a program that uses the switch statement, follow these four steps.

Open your text editor and create a new file that will contain the switch statement. Type in the following Java statements.The switch statement determines the correct output based on user input.

Save your file as UseTheswitchStatement.java.

Open a command prompt and navigate to the directory containing your Java program. Then type in the command to compile the source and hit Enter.

You are ready to test your program. Type in the command to run the Java runtime launcher followed by your program name and then "1". Next, hit Enter.Notice the switch statement correctly responded in the output. If you wish, try additional tests with other integers and even without an integer.

Author: Stephen Withrow

Stephen has over 30 years' experience in training, development, and consulting in a variety of technology areas including Java, C, C++, XML, JavaScript, AJAX, Tomcat, JBoss, Oracle, and DB2. His background includes design and implementation of business solutions on client/server, Web, and enterprise platforms. Stephen is a published writer in both technical and non-technical endeavors. Stephen received an undergraduate degree in Computer Science and Physics from Florida State University.

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